National stakeholders in the field of migration and asylum reviewed the progress achieved in 2025 and discussed priorities for 2026 during the second Steering Committee Meeting of the Council of Europe Project on “Strengthening the human rights protection of refugees and migrants in the Republic of Moldova: phase II”.

The event gathered heads of institutions and representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the General Inspectorate for Migration, the General Inspectorate of Border Police, National Institute of Justice, Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, Ministry of Education and Research, the National Centre for Psycho-Pedagogical Assistance and People’s Advocate Office.

Head of the Council of Europe Office in Chisinau, Falk Lange, underlined that the Council of Europe remains firmly committed to supporting the country by promoting a stronger understanding and application of human rights standards in the fields of migration and asylum, with a view to further harmonise national legislation and practice with Council of Europe and international standards. “Through this Project, we are determined to further strengthen national framework, to improve institutional capacities, and facilitate access to support services and integration programmes for refugees, asylum seekers and migrants”, said Falk Lange.

Director of the National Institute of Justice, Ramona Strugariu, appreciated the Council of Europe’s continued support in strengthening quality training and building an independent, democratic justice system, despite the challenges posed by the current circumstances. Strugariu emphasized the need for resources and strategic planning to address pressures on borders, human rights issues linked to migration and asylum, and rapid labor market changes, highlighting that effective management of migration could present opportunities for development.

Head of the General Inspectorate for Migration, Dumitru Lazăr, underlined the value of the Council of Europe’s support. He noted  that hundreds of professionals across migration and border agencies have been trained to shift from a purely procedural approach to one centered on human needs.

The Steering Committee Meeting provided a valuable space for dialogue and co-ordination among key stakeholders, strengthening co-operation and reaffirming their commitment to improving the legislative framework, building institutional capacities, and enhancing the protection of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants in the Republic of Moldova.

The Council of Europe Project “Strengthening the human rights protection of refugees and migrants in the Republic of Moldova: phase II” , is funded and implemented under the Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova 2025-2028.